A recent home renovation project in Mumbai has transformed a traditional multi-bedroom apartment into an open, art-focused living space that emphasizes spaciousness and natural light. The redesign, led by designer Cooper, involved removing dividing walls and reconfiguring the layout to create a more cohesive, functional environment that blends contemporary artistry with comfortable living.
The renovation began by knocking through a cramped bedroom situated between the dining area and bar, replacing it with an elongated, west-facing main living room featuring three oak-lined bay windows that afford ocean views. The bar area includes a custom counter finished in liquid metal, a feature that required several iterations to perfect. Adjacent to the bar, a window opens onto a smoking ledge, adding an element of outdoor connection.
Departing from older interior design styles characterized by dark teak wood and bulky furniture, the new aesthetic incorporates white walls, light wood, and natural stone, accented by bold colors and artistic elements. The living room wall is adorned with a sketch by MF Hussain displayed over mirrored panels that cleverly conceal a bathroom door, while a 200-kilogram basalt sculpture by Vaibhav More stands on a stainless-steel bench that appears to float between two walls.
Colorful artwork plays a crucial role in shaping the ambiance. A vibrant canvas by Gujarat-born artist CD Mistry hangs near the bar, introducing saturated hues and Indian motifs that break the monotony of the space. The blue tones in this piece inspired a teal wall in the adjacent family room, which features a deep blue sofa described by the owner as “our den” — a cozy retreat for private moments.
A newly designed corridor showcases a collection of contemporary Indian art displayed in protruding black metal boxes. The couple’s bedroom, located at the rear of the apartment, includes an abstract painting by Bal Chhabda and a floral canvas by Sri Lankan artist Senaka Senanayake, hung on a sage green feature wall. The color choice was inspired by the coconut trees visible from the window, blending natural elements with the interior palette.
The bedroom also connects to a spacious walk-in wardrobe and bathroom, converted from the owner’s childhood bedroom. This area features a travertine-clad suite with twin basins set on a central island, creating an airy and luxurious contrast to a guest bathroom finished in glossy burgundy tiles. The smaller bathroom includes yellow walls paired with black tiles, adding vibrant energy to the space.
Rather than maximizing the number of rooms or storage, the project prioritized openness and flow. This approach was initially met with surprise by family members accustomed to the original four-bedroom layout, which was reduced to two bedrooms. However, visitors now regularly express amazement at how effectively the renovated space functions, blending comfort with artistic expression.